Westwood: Punk, Icon, Activist

Westwood: Punk, Icon, Activist

Program Notes

Dame Vivienne Westwood is Punk Rock’s Grande Dame. One time agent provocateur, the doyenne of British fashion, an eco-conscious activist, and one of the most influential originators in recent history.

The film explores her uphill struggle to success, looking closely at her artistry, her activism, and her cultural significance. Blending iconic archive and newly shot observational footage, this era defining, intimate origins story is told in Vivienne’s own words, and through touching interviews with her inner circle of family, friends, and collaborators.

WESTWOOD: PUNK, ICON, ACTIVIST is the first film to encompass the remarkable story of one of the true icons of our time, as she fights to maintain her brand’s integrity, her principles – and her legacy.

“There are many words that you can use to describe Ms. Westwood (born 1941), an early punk rock tastemaker and merchandizer turned global couture brand. Boring certainly is not one of them.” — Manohla Dargis, The New York Times

“It provides a fascinating, involving glimpse of both who Westwood was back in the day and who she is at this particular moment in time, so much so that we genuinely miss her once the credits begin to roll.” — Kenneth Turan, Los Angeles Times

“True to its title, WESTWOOD: PUNK, ICON, ACTIVIST is chiefly out to gild a remarkable, independent legacy. As the film unrolls its rousing, ‘Bolero’-scored closing montage of the stunning catwalk visions Westwood has given the fashion world over four decades, you can hardly say it’s undeserved.” — Guy Lodge, Variety

OFFICIAL SELECTION:
Sundance Film Festival
True/False Film Festival
CPH:DOX